A motor vehicle collision could cause a variety of different serious injuries. Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are some of the most serious medical issues that arise after collisions, and they are also some of the easier issues for people to overlook.
Symptom onset is one concern. Oftentimes, people only have minimal symptoms initially, but the severity and extent of their symptoms increase as time passes. The bruising or swelling inside the skull continues unchecked and produces worse symptoms in some cases. It is, therefore, crucial for people to obtain a prompt and accurate diagnosis if they have a brain injury.
What are some of the warning signs of a TBI that people need to know after a car crash?
Cognitive symptoms
Obviously, an injury to the brain can affect how someone thinks and processes information. In some cases, people notice difficulty concentrating or may struggle with their memory. Other times, they may notice a change in their mood or personality. Brain injuries can lead to difficulty sleeping or difficulty staying awake. People may feel confused or may have sudden mood swings.
Concerning physical symptoms
Sometimes, a brain injury causes a headache that may start small but persists for days. It may even worsen as time elapses. Other times, people notice a persistent sense of nausea or start vomiting after trauma to their heads. They may also experience a sense of dizziness or difficulty maintaining their balance. In more serious cases, people may notice issues with their speech or their motor control. People may experience weakness or numbness in their extremities, seizures or pupil dilation. They may also lose consciousness for anywhere from a few seconds to multiple hours.
Common sensory symptoms
The brain must analyze incoming sensory information, and an injury can interrupt that process. People may notice a ringing in their ears or blurry vision. They may become more sensitive to light and loud noises. In some cases, people may experience inexplicable bad tastes in their mouths or notice difficulty tasting and smelling things. Any otherwise unexplained changes in sensory perception can be an indicator of an issue with someone’s brain.
There are a host of potential TBI symptoms, and a prompt diagnosis is necessary to prevent those symptoms from worsening or becoming permanent. Those who know how to check themselves for signs of a brain injury after a car crash can prioritize getting the medical care they require. Pursuing an insurance claim or personal injury lawsuit may also be necessary, given how expensive brain injuries can be.